#52 Jonathan Pageau - The Problem With Secular Architecture
Jan 20, 2024
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French Canadian icon carver Jonathan Pageau discusses the representation of divine figures in art, the perception of brutalist buildings, biases towards old and new architecture, icons and idols, the complex connection between sexuality, religion, and evolutionary biology, and the importance of religious symbols and the misunderstanding of ancient ways of thinking.
Religious discussions often result in polarization and talking past each other, which is unhelpful.
Images in religious traditions, particularly icons, are seen as a means to manifest the divine in the world.
Architecture and city planning play a significant role in shaping human perception and experience, and modern trends often ignore the sacredness of space.
Deep dives
Skepticism about engaging in religious discussions
The guest initially expressed skepticism about engaging in religious discussions due to past experiences where conversations often resulted in talking past each other. This led to increased polarization and was deemed unhelpful.
The role of images in religious traditions
The guest, being an artist by trade, discusses the role of images in religious traditions. He explains that Christian theology sees the incarnation of Christ as restoring and necessitating the use of images. Icons are seen as a means to manifest the divine in the world and are venerated, not worshipped.
Critique of Michelangelo's portrayal of God in art
The guest critiques the portrayal of God the Father in art, particularly Michelangelo's depiction in the Sistine Chapel. He considers it a theological aberration, finding it visually appealing but monstrosity in theological terms.
The impact of architectural styles on human experience
The guest highlights the significance of architecture and city planning in shaping human perception and experience. He critiques modern architectural trends, such as brutalism, that ignore the connection between human nature, proportionality, and the sacredness of space.
Idols vs. icons and the challenge of worship
The guest distinguishes between idols and icons in religious contexts. Idols capture attention for their own sake, while icons point towards higher goods and transcendence. He explains that anything that captures excessive attention, such as pornography or alcohol, can become an idol that hinders transcendence and real participation.
Jonathan Pageau is a French Canadian icon carver, public speaker and YouTuber exploring the symbolic patterns that underlie our experience of the world, how these patterns emerge and come together, manifesting in religion, art and in popular culture. He's also the editor of the Orthodox Arts Journal and host of the Symbolic World blog and podcast.
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